Is this an accurate article on the shape of a photon?

In summary, the shape of a photon is a point particle with no physical dimensions. While it exhibits wave-like behavior, it does not have a wave-like shape. The shape of a photon does not affect its properties, which are determined by its frequency and speed. The shape of a photon cannot be physically seen, but its behavior can be observed through experiments and mathematical models. However, the nature of photons is still an area of ongoing research and study.
  • #1
Ephemerality
1
0
I came across this article on the shape of a photon https://cosmosmagazine.com/physics/what-shape-is-a-photon

However, the first image confused me, is it showing the wave function? Most other questions regarding what a photon "looks" like seemed to dismiss the question.
 
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  • #2
Ephemerality said:
is it showing the wave function?

Not all of it, just its phase, according to the actual paper, which is on arxiv.org here:

https://arxiv.org/abs/1509.02890
 

1. What is the shape of a photon?

The shape of a photon is a point particle, meaning it does not have a definite shape or size. It is a fundamental particle of light and has no physical dimensions.

2. Can a photon have a wave-like shape?

While photons do exhibit wave-like behavior, such as interference and diffraction, it is important to understand that they do not actually have a wave-like shape. The wave-particle duality of photons is a concept in quantum mechanics that explains their behavior as both particles and waves.

3. Does the shape of a photon affect its properties?

No, the shape of a photon does not affect its properties. The properties of a photon, such as its energy, wavelength, and polarization, are determined by its frequency and speed. These properties are not affected by the shape of the photon.

4. Is it possible to physically see the shape of a photon?

No, it is not possible to physically see the shape of a photon. Since it is a point particle, it is too small to be seen with the naked eye or even with most microscopes. Its interactions with matter can be observed, but not its actual shape.

5. How do we know the shape of a photon?

Scientists have studied the behavior of photons using various experiments and mathematical models. Through these methods, they have determined that the shape of a photon is a point particle with no physical dimensions. However, the exact nature of photons is still an area of ongoing research and study in the field of physics.

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